Schlotterbeck Denies Dortmund Contract Extension Reports

Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck has denied reports that he is close to signing a new contract with the club, casting uncertainty over his long-term future just months before the summer transfer window.

The 26-year-old German international made the comments after Germany's 2-1 friendly victory over Ghana on Monday, where he started in central defense. His current deal with Dortmund expires in the summer of 2027, leaving the Bundesliga side in a position to either secure an extension or risk losing him for free next year. Schlotterbeck addressed speculation in the mixed zone, stating, "I must clearly deny that. Unfortunately, we haven’t reached that point. I probably would have made a decision in the next few weeks but I negotiated with Sebastian for a long time and he’s no longer there at Dortmund."

The negotiations have been complicated by recent changes in Dortmund's management. Sporting director Sebastian Kehl departed the club last week, and Schlotterbeck has begun discussions with his successor, Lars Ricken, who also serves as managing director of sport. The player added that the situation is "not an easy" one for him, while expressing sympathy for Dortmund...